I have recently refined my finishing process. In fact I have learned that when it comes to finishing less is more. On natural wood (no stain or dye) I simlply progressively sand to 220 grit, wipe on a coat of 2lb cut shellac (not brush but wipe with a cotten cloth) sand lightly with 320 grit. repeat 2 more times. After the third sanding with 320 grit I polish with 0000 steel wool and buff with Renaissance Wax on a buffing wheel This process and wax gives the finish a lusterus natural shine that beats any factory finish in my opinion

Thank you everyone for the compliments. I used a 2” bit. I measured the votives before selecting the forstner bit size.

As far as additional pictures go I have already given it to my cousin for his wedding gift, so I don’t have access to it. However, I will be making more in the future since it was well received as a gift. I will post more pictures at that time.